Nachtkastjes en een kast 1857 - 1859

This drawing of bedside tables and a cabinet was created by Pierre Joseph Hubert Cuypers. He used graphite on paper. While on paper, this artwork is a design proposal for a piece of furniture, it gives us insight into the making process. Notice the different perspectives, with detailed measurements written alongside. Cuypers has thought through how the piece will be constructed in the workshop, its form, structure and decoration. The curves and flourishes suggest the hand of a skilled woodworker, carving intricate details. The choice of material - probably a hardwood like oak or mahogany - speaks to the status of the owner, their aspiration to craft and quality. The amount of work involved, from the initial design to the final product, reflects a society where specialized labor and material consumption were becoming increasingly prevalent. By considering the materials, the making, and the social context of this design, we gain a richer understanding of its meaning and purpose. It also challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.